The DNR says the Erickson silica sand mine in Houston County is within a one-mile buffer zone from Ferndale Brook. So according to a recent state law, the mine needs a DNR permit to operate, not just the permission of Houston County.

DNR water registration supervisor Tom Hovey says the mine must cease operations until it applies for and receives a trout stream setback permit.

KAGE radio (http://bit.ly/19Xt8Oq ) reports Erickson mine must submit a mining and reclamation plan, complete a hydrological evaluation and have a site visit from affected agencies.

The mine has five business days to inform the DNR it has ceased operations.